Phenomena - No 21 - 1994 05

Magazine Overview

Title: Phénomèna
Issue: No. 21
Date: May-June 1994
Publisher: SOS OVNI
Type: Bi-monthly magazine dedicated to the study of UFO phenomena, aiming for objective information without dogmatism or sensationalism.

Editorial Stance and Content Overview

The editorial, "Phénomèna près de chez vous," highlights the magazine's commitment to quality information and its growth over three years, including increased page count, new sections, and color coverage. It announces the expansion of the SOS OVNI association with new delegations in Pyrénées and Québec. The issue promises a comprehensive look at UFO phenomena, both historically and in contemporary reports.

Key Articles and Features

Canada 1915, Scandinavia 1946: Ghosts in the Sky...

This article, based on reports from Citizens Against UFO Secrecy (CAUS), examines pre-modern UFO sightings. It details an incident in February 1915 where "aeroplanes" were reported crossing the US-Canada border, dropping "fireballs." The event caused concern in Ottawa, leading to the dimming of government building lights due to fears of German sympathizers during World War I. The article also covers the "Phantom Rockets" wave in Scandinavia during the summer of 1946. It describes objects seen over Sweden, Finland, and Denmark, often characterized as "fireballs" or "cigar-shaped" objects, with varying speeds and descriptions. The official Swedish investigation is presented as contradictory, initially suggesting Soviet missiles but later attributing most sightings to astronomical phenomena.

Belgian UFOs: The Jules Verne Hypothesis

This feature by Renaud Marhic reconstructs a significant sighting from November 29, 1989, near Eupen, Belgium. Two gendarmes observed a large, diamond-shaped object with powerful white headlights and a flashing red light. The object moved silently and hovered at an altitude of 80 meters. The article explores the "Jules Verne hypothesis," suggesting a possible link to his fictional airship "Robur le conquérant," and contrasts this with the idea of a secret aircraft or a genuine UFO. The report details the object's movements, including its flight along the autoroute E40 and its disappearance over the Belgian territory.

The "Mini-Zeppelin" Controversy

This section delves into a controversial explanation for the Belgian UFO wave, involving an inventor identified only as M.K. The article recounts how M.K. claimed his "mini-zeppelin," a silent, camera-equipped craft about 7 to 12 meters long, was the source of numerous UFO sightings in Belgium. He alleged that the Belgian military had prior knowledge of his invention in early 1989. The article critically examines M.K.'s claims, questioning the lack of official disclosure, the logistical challenges of his device, and the absence of concrete proof, comparing the situation to Orson Welles' "War of the Worlds" broadcast.

Historical Sightings in the 1930s

This brief section notes that mysterious aircraft were observed in Scandinavia even before the 1946 "Phantom Rockets" wave. Reports from December 1933 in Sweden described unidentified "aeroplanes" with light beams. In 1934, Norway and Finland also reported "mysterious aeroplanes" and "phantom aviators," with sightings of acrobatic evolutions and blinding lights. The article suggests a possible connection to secret German aviation experiments conducted in Sweden and the USSR during that period.

Other Sections

• Bloc-notes: A collection of shorter news items and observations.
• Des stars et des ovnis: Explores potential connections between celebrities and UFO phenomena.
• Sommaire des anciens numéros: An index of past issues.
• En France et dans le Monde: Reports on UFO sightings and related news from various locations.
• Notes de lecture: Reviews of books and publications related to UFOs.
• En direct d'SOS OVNI: Updates and news from the SOS OVNI organization.
• Vous dites?: A section for reader feedback or questions.
• Revue de presse: A compilation of UFO-related news from other media outlets.
• Annonces gratuites: Free classified advertisements.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes a rigorous, evidence-based approach to UFO research, seeking to debunk sensationalism and present factual information. It highlights the importance of historical context in understanding the UFO phenomenon, showing that sightings and official interest predate the modern era of UFOlogy. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, exploring various hypotheses, including those involving secret aircraft and terrestrial explanations, while remaining receptive to the possibility of unknown phenomena. The magazine also serves as a platform for the SOS OVNI organization, promoting its activities and research.

Phénomèna, Mai-Juin 1994 issue, delves into the persistent mystery of unexplained aerial phenomena, focusing on the Belgian UFO wave and exploring various theories and witness accounts. The magazine also touches upon celebrity interest in UFOs and classic cases.

The Belgian UFO Wave: Dirigibles and Secret Aircraft

The issue critically examines the Belgian UFO wave, particularly the recurring descriptions that seem to align with advanced dirigibles rather than conventional aircraft or extraterrestrial spacecraft. The article "Un troupeau de bouc-émissaires..." (A herd of scapegoats...) by Renaud Marhic, presents a detailed analysis of the various explanations proposed for the wave, ranging from military aircraft like the F117A and the hypothetical TR3A Black Manta to the more plausible, yet still unconfirmed, theory of a secret American dirigible.

Jean-Jacques Velasco, director of SEPRA, is quoted suggesting that the descriptions of altitude, trajectory, speed, and low noise levels perfectly match those of a dirigible. The possibility of a military dirigible, possibly American, being tested in Belgian skies before the Gulf War is raised, referencing a report in Popular Mechanics about a large, slow-moving flying wing observed in Antelope Valley, USA.

The article "le portrait-robot du dirigeable nécessaire à la reproduction des effets constatés en Belgique nous permet de dresser un «cahier des charges» incontournable" (The portrait of the dirigible necessary for reproducing the effects observed in Belgium allows us to draw up an essential 'spec sheet') by Renaud Marhic, further explores the technical requirements for such a craft. It details the necessary equipment for a reconstituted dirigible, including lighting, propulsion, and navigation systems, and emphasizes the need for the 'inventor' to demonstrate its capabilities in situ.

Case Studies and Witness Testimonies

Several specific cases are detailed:

• Perwcz, Belgium (March 1990): Gaston J. reported seeing a white, round light that transformed into a silent object with blue lights, approaching him at bicycle speed before flying west. He described it as having a glass cockpit and resembling a dirigible.
• Eghezée, Belgium (April 4, 1991): M. and Mme F. witnessed a large, stationary object with three white lights and a red light at the rear, emitting a humming sound. It flew away at low altitude, and they estimated its size to be about 30 meters long and 25-27 meters wide, with a triangular shape and a rear section shaped like an arrow.
• Riec-sur-Belon, France (September 29, 1974): This classic case involves a family witnessing luminous phenomena. Initially described as a large, red-lit object with a cone-shaped cockpit, it later produced three white, human-like silhouettes that moved towards the witnesses. The event was sensationalized by local newspapers, leading to various explanations, including a paralyzed dog being linked to the UFO.

Celebrities and UFOs

The section "Des stars et des ovnis" (Stars and UFOs) highlights that the phenomenon of UFOs is not limited to the general public, with many celebrities expressing interest or reporting their own experiences. Actors like Darry Cowl and Gérard Lenorman, designer Paco Rabane, and former minister Jean-François Deniau are mentioned. Even François Mitterrand is cited for his attention being drawn to a newspaper clipping about strange lights observed over London during a miners' strike.

The book "Les stars racontent l'étrange" by Elisabeth and Jean-Claude Zana is reviewed, featuring celebrity accounts of the unexplained, including Robert Hossein's descriptions of triangular green objects and luminous circles.

Skepticism and Explanations

The magazine acknowledges the skepticism surrounding UFO phenomena, particularly in the Riec-sur-Belon case, where media sensationalism and various explanations, including natural phenomena and hoaxes, were proposed. The article "Classiques du non identifié" (Classics of the unidentified) by Renaud Marhic, revisits the Riec-sur-Belon case, dissecting the media frenzy and the attempts to explain it away, while still acknowledging the core mystery of the reported human-like silhouettes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the persistent lack of definitive identification for many aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor a critical and analytical approach, exploring both conventional and unconventional explanations, while remaining open to the possibility of genuinely unexplained events. The magazine highlights the challenges in distinguishing between genuine sightings, misidentifications, and potential hoaxes or secret military tests. The emphasis on dirigibles as a plausible explanation for some of the Belgian UFO wave sightings suggests a leaning towards terrestrial, albeit advanced, technology as a potential source of these phenomena, rather than exclusively extraterrestrial origins. The issue concludes by posing questions about the nature of these phenomena and the ongoing quest for answers.

Title: Phénomèna
Issue: 21
Date: Mai - Juin 1994
Publisher: SOS OVNI
Country: France

This issue of Phénomèna magazine, a French publication dedicated to UFO phenomena, presents a diverse range of articles, reviews, and reader contributions. It aims to keep its audience informed about the latest developments in ufology, from specific sightings to broader investigations and theoretical discussions.

Featured Books and Investigations

Vague d'OVNI sur la Belgique 2

The magazine heavily promotes the release of "Vague d'OVNI sur la Belgique 2" (UFO Wave over Belgium 2), the second volume of an extensive work by the Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux (SOBEPS). This book is presented as an exclusive French offering, detailing one of the strangest UFO waves in ufology history with over 500 pages and numerous illustrations. It promises to provide a comprehensive bilan of observations, studies, and reactions from the media and scientists.

OVNI en Provence

Another featured book is "OVNI en Provence" (UFOs in Provence), co-authored by Michel Figuet and Henri Julien. This work is described as the first comprehensive catalog of sightings in the Provence region of France, covering six departments and detailing phenomena from early observations to the present day. It is positioned as an essential addition to any ufology library, following previous regional studies.

L'Affaire Ummo: Les Extraterrestres Qui Venaient du Froid

This issue dedicates significant attention to the Ummo affair, with a review of Renaud Marhic's book "L'Affaire Ummo: Les Extraterrestres Qui Venaient du Froid." The article highlights the scientific and precise nature of the messages attributed to the 'Ummites' and the subsequent investigation by Jean-Pierre Petit. It discusses the controversy surrounding the origins of the letters, with some suggesting a KGB connection and others pointing to individuals like Jordan Peña. The magazine presents this as a complex case, potentially a sophisticated manipulation, and includes excerpts of Ummo texts and letters.

UFO Sightings and Reports

En France et dans le Monde...

• This section details recent UFO sightings:
• Finistère, France (February 5, 1994): An automobilist and her daughter observed a white luminous ball moving across the sky, described as being "like the full moon."
• Morbihan, France (March 12, 1994): Residents reported seeing a strange phenomenon at night, described as a "large white comma that was turning." Initially, a nearby military camp was suspected, but it was later revealed to be a light projector from a discotheque.
• Ardennes, France: The magazine follows up on a previous report of a close encounter in Gué-d'Hossus, providing two photos that help situate the context of the observed phenomenon and mentioning the ongoing investigation by CEEPA.

Phénomène de haute étrangeté à Saint-Priest?

This article investigates reports of strange lights and sounds in Saint-Priest, Lyon, France, initially presented by a local magazine as a significant UFO event. However, after an investigation by SOS OVNI Rhône, it is revealed to be an elaborate April Fool's joke orchestrated by a journalist, with the 'witness' and 'TV crew' being fabricated. The sounds were attributed to a nearby railway yard, and the lights to reflections.

Reviews and Analysis

Revue de Presse

• Russia: A review of the magazine "Aura-Z" is critical of its lack of critical analysis regarding a witness's account of interacting with a UFO and mentioning the Yeti. The Ummo dossier in the Russian context is also discussed, with differing opinions on the KGB hypothesis.
• USA: The article highlights the extensive work by the J. Allen Hynek Center for UFO Studies on the Roswell incident, noting the accumulation of evidence and testimonies that point towards a fascinating reality, though definitive proof remains elusive.
• France: A brief mention of a dossier on extraterrestrials in "Légende et News."

Notes de lecture

This section offers critical commentary on the book "Vague d'OVNI sur la Belgique 2." It discusses the shift in tone from the first volume, the role of scientists like Isabelle Stengers and Auguste Meessen, and their evolving perspectives on UFO phenomena. The analysis questions the scientific explanations offered for radar echoes and atmospheric phenomena, suggesting a potential bias in interpreting evidence.

Vous dites?

• This section features reader correspondence:
• Sandra Pierrès (Lannion): Questions the article on "RR3" and Bertrand Méheust's theories, seeking deeper exploration of Jacques Vallée's ideas on human society and the role of UFO phenomena.
• Angelo Crosignani (CRIU, Milan): Critiques Phénomèna's extensive focus on the Ummo affair and the KGB hypothesis, questioning the magazine's shift in focus and the credibility of Jordan Peña's involvement.
• Yann Schmitt (Luxembourg): Represents a group of young UFO enthusiasts seeking collaboration and contacts within the ufology community. They are working on a book and have a specific case with photographic evidence from Steinfort, Luxembourg.

The magazine's editorial response to the letters addresses the Ummo affair, clarifying its stance on the KGB hypothesis and Jordan Peña's potential role. It also welcomes the young collaborators and acknowledges the significance of their case, comparing it to crop circle phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Phénomèna reinforces its commitment to critically examining UFO phenomena. It balances reporting on specific sightings and book releases with in-depth analysis and reader engagement. The magazine appears to favor a skeptical yet open-minded approach, encouraging rigorous investigation and questioning established narratives. The Ummo affair, in particular, is presented as a complex case study involving potential manipulation and scientific debate. The publication also highlights the importance of regional UFO research and the challenges faced by independent investigators. The editorial stance encourages continued research and open discussion within the ufology community, while also acknowledging the need for factual accuracy and critical thinking.

This issue of Phénomèna, dated Mai - Juin - 1994, is published by SOS OVNI in France. The cover headline, "OUVREZ UNE FENETRE SUR DE NOUVEAUX MONDES..." (Open a window to new worlds...), suggests a focus on exploring unknown phenomena. The magazine's price is 28,00 F-RD.

Featured Articles and Content

OMNI Special Issue on UFO Conspiracy

The issue highlights the April 1994 special edition of OMNI magazine, dedicated to "50 Years of Close Encounters" and particularly "The UFO Conspiracy." This special issue explores the question of whether a vast program exists to conceal the truth about UFOs. OMNI refrains from taking a definitive stance, instead presenting various theories and counter-theories. To further this investigation, OMNI has launched the "Projet Open Book" (Open Book Project), based at 324 West Wendover Avenue, Suite 205, Greensboro, North Carolina, 27408, USA. The project aims to definitively clear ufology of its paranoia and rumors, and to provide a scientific dossier on the presence of manufactured objects in our skies. The OMNI issue features contributions from Dennis Stacy on "Six Decades of Governmental Dissimulations," A.J.S. Rayl on "Inside the Military-UFO Underground," including interviews with Bob Lazar, Robert O. Dean, and Charles Halt, and Patrick Huyghe on "Abduction." James Oberg also contributes on "Soviet Saucers." The article recommends this issue for those who read English.

Other Publications Mentioned

Several other UFO-related publications are listed:

• The Crop Watcher, n° 21, Spring 1994 (Great Britain)
• Il Giornale dei Misteri, n° 270, April 1994 (Italy)
• Celacanthe, n° 74, March 1994 (France)
• Inforespace, n° 89, March 1994 (Belgium)
• Contact OVNI, n° 33, 1994 (France) - Praised for not publishing witness names.
• Enigmas, vol. 4, n° 35, February-March 1994 (France) - Mentions observations at Bonnybridge and a video currently being analyzed by AS2, the official British organization interested in UFOs (Scotland).
• UFO Magazine, vol. 12, n° 6, January-February 1994 (Great Britain)
• Bulles (Bulletin de Liaison pour l'Etude des Sectes), n° 41, 1st Quarter 1994 (France)
• Dornier Post, January 1994 (Germany)
• 3 Skeptics UFO Newsletter, n° 27, May 1994 (USA)
• Just Cause, n° 39, March 1994 (USA)
• Il Giornale dei Misteri, n° 271, May 1994 (Italy)
• Fortean Times (announcing a yearly supplement for cases that don't fit in the regular magazine), n° 74, April-May 1994 (Great Britain)
• Notizie UFO, n° 42, October 1993, n° 43, December 1993, n° 44, March 1994 (Italy)

Announcements (Annonces)

This section features various requests and offers related to UFOs:

• Requests:
• Seeking UFO pins from France and abroad for collection (Haro Diego, Toulouse).
• Request for a good copy of the ARTE broadcast "Farewell from Mars" from August 17th, and "Flying Saucers Versus Earth" by The Residents (address provided).
• Seeking specific books: "ULTRA Top Secret - ces ovnis qui font peur" by Jean Sider, "Aux limites de la réalité" by J. Allen Hynek and Jacques Vallée, "Les Objets Volants N'on Identifiés: mythe ou réalité ?", and "Nouveau rapport sur les OVNI" by J. Allen Hynek (Lollien David, Beaucamps-le-Vieux).
• Seeking TV shows about the Belgian UFO wave (Carlier Serge, Nohanent).
• Request for a reproduction (print or slide) of a photo taken in Andorra in 1976, and contact information for people who own or have owned magnetic detectors. Also seeking observation reports from September 1990 (contact: (1) 42.29.94.05).
• Seeking books: "Les soucoupes volantes, affaire sérieuse" by Frank Edwards, "En quête des humanoïdes" by Charles Bowen, "Les étrangers de l'espace" by Donald Keyhoe, "Face aux soucoupes volantes" by Edward Ruppelt (Hervé Benvegnen, Onex, Switzerland).
• Offering $35 for photocopies of UFO incident reports (published in magazines, journals, or books) that mention a magnetic detector or compass being affected during the sighting. Contact Jan Eric Herr in San Diego, USA, or Michel Zirger in France.
• Seeking Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese ufology books and magazines (Jean-Luc Rivéra, Sèvres).
• Seeking "Le livre noir des soucoupes volantes" and "Premières enquêtes sur les humanoïdes extraterrestres" by Henry Durrant.
• Seeking articles (photocopies or originals) concerning "Men in Black" (M.I.B.) and 30 cases involving M.I.B. (Olivier Herman, Dijon).
• Seeking "J'ai été le cobaye des extra-terrestres," "Le cobaye des E.T. face aux scientifiques," and "La révélation 1996" by Jean Miguères (Di Stefano Giuseppe, Switzerland).
• Request for press articles or case files concerning a "Man in Black" (M.I.B.) observation in the Cher department in the late 1960s/early 1970s (Laurent Toupet, Bourges).
• Seeking photocopies or case files (even excerpts) concerning UFO debates within the UN or NATO (contact by phone in the evening).
• Offers:
• Selling "Le livre noir des S.V." and "Ledossier des OVNI" (H. Durrant), "La Science face aux extraterrestres" and "Le Nouveau défi des OVNI" (J.C. Bourret), "OVNI: la fin du secret" (Robert Roussel), "Objets Volants Non Identifiés Mythe ou réalité ?" (J.A. Hynek), "Alerte dans le ciel" (Ch. Carreau) (Michel Figuet, Sainte-Maxime).
• Selling 24 issues of "Kadath," a Belgian magazine on lost civilizations. Also seeking UFO books/magazines in English (contact by phone in the evening).
• Selling 21 used UFO books by authors such as A. Michel, J. Vallée, D. Keyhoe, J.-P. Petit, P. Delval, J.V. Buttlar, Bondarchuk, F. Edwards, J. Pottier, Ch. Berlitz, B. Méheust, C Vorilhon, etc. (contact by phone between 12h and 13h).

Divers (Miscellaneous)

• UFO Norway News: Provides an overview of current Norwegian UFO cases and general excerpts from the Norwegian magazine "UFO." The magazine is published 1-2 times a year in English and is available via subscription (NOK 50 per year in Europe, NOK 60 in USA/elsewhere). Orders and payments should be sent to UFO Norway News, attn. Mentz Kaarbo, P.O. Box 4332, Nygardstangen, N-5028 Bergen, Norway. Payment can be made via Norwegian bank cheque or International Money Order. A fee of NOK 10 is added for bank cheques due to fees; sending local currency is at the sender's risk.
• CREPS (Centre de Recherches et d'Etudes des Phénomènes Spatiaux): Aims to inform the public about UFO presence through conferences, debates, and slide shows. They publish a bulletin offering analysis of regional cases. Contact CREPS at 171, route de Corbiac, 33160 St-Médard-en-Jalles.
• Jean-Pierre Troadec: Has published "OVNI, LE DOSSIER RHONE-ALPES, ARCHIVES 1993," a two-volume document of approximately 80 pages. It compiles about 150 press clippings detailing specific sightings (RR1, RR2, RR3, and contacts), excluding general articles or conference reports. The work aims to reflect ufological activity in the eight Rhone-Alpine departments and the period 1950-1993. To order, send 150 French francs to Jean-Pierre Troadec, B.P. 4345, 69242 Lyon Cedex 04, France.
• Bouillé Jean-Claude: Is collecting pins, magnets, and other gadgets related to astronautics or the supernatural and is seeking reader assistance for this project.
• Jean-Luc Laloy: Is looking for an investigator in Bordeaux to conduct an investigation in the Médoc region with a cameraman for a UFO case from August 20, 1973 (LDLN nº 309).

Attention Notice

Readers are encouraged to send a message when their announcement is no longer valid. They can also use the fax or leave a message on 36.15 (SOS OVNI).

Free Classified Ads

Readers are invited to submit free classified ads for buying, selling, or searching for items. Ads should be sent to SOS OVNI, Service Petites Annonces, B.P. 324, 13611 Aix-en-Provence Cedex 1, France.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO conspiracy theories, government secrecy surrounding UFO phenomena, and the scientific investigation of UFOs. The magazine actively promotes ufology as a field of serious research, encouraging the sharing of information and the debunking of misinformation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various perspectives and facilitating communication among researchers and the public interested in the UFO phenomenon. The emphasis on scientific investigation, as seen with the OMNI "Open Book Project" and the mention of AS2 analyzing video evidence, suggests a commitment to evidence-based ufology.